The Senegal international is the Magpies' top scorer this season with 11 Premier League goals, only one behind Swansea City's Michu and Manchester United's Robin van Persie.

Manager Alan Pardew admitted to concern earlier in December that Ba’s current release clause could see him leave the club – with a fee of around £7 million thought to force Newcastle’s hand – but Ba spoke fondly of Arsenal amid reported interest from the north London outfit.

"Arsenal are one of these teams who make you dream," Ba told Canal+.

"I have nothing to say about the speculation. Nothing is about to happen.

"The press know Arsenal need another striker and also know about my release clause, and make their own mind up about it."